John Cooper Clarke is the 'Godfather of Punk Poetry' and a true British cult hero whose influence spans poetry, music and fashion. Best known for his iconic poem I Wanna Be Yours which became a global hit through Arctic Monkeys and passed a billion streams, John continues to inspire generations with his sharp wit and unique voice.
He rose from Salford’s working men’s clubs in the 1970s to become a defining figure of the punk era. His early shows featured future legends like Joy Division and Duran Duran and he toured with the Sex Pistols, Buzzcocks and The Clash. His album Snap Crackle and Bop produced by Martin Hannett cemented his status and was followed by his best-selling collection Ten Years in an Open Necked Shirt.
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Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Millbrook, Guildford